What's the Sticky Residue on My Cast Iron & How Do I Get Rid of It?

Q: I attempted to re-season my cast iron pans. I washed and dried them, and then I put Crisco shortening on the inside and out. I put them, upside down, in my preheated oven at 350°F for one hour. I turned the oven off and let them cool. When they had cooled completely, they had this very sticky, gummy coating all over them.

I can't get it off. What can I do to correct this and what did I do wrong?

Sent by Diane

Editor: This sometimes happens if you use a little too much oil — the excess oil turns gummy and sticky once it cools. Next time wipe the pan with a paper towel or clean kitchen rag while the pan is still hot after seasoning to remove any excess. To get rid of it now, scrub the residue away with a stiff brush or some kosher salt, and re-season: